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- Tasks: Lead the Design & Technology department and inspire creativity in students.
- Company: Outstanding secondary school in Reading with a focus on academic excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, and a supportive leadership team.
- Other info: Collaborative culture prioritising staff wellbeing and student ambition.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving innovation in a flagship department.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and strong background in Design & Technology.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
A visionary and technically proficient Design & Technology specialist is required to lead the department at an outstanding secondary school in Reading from September 2026. This is a full-time, permanent leadership opportunity for an experienced practitioner ready to oversee a high-performing faculty and drive innovation in a subject that bridges creativity and engineering.
Design & Technology is a flagship department at this school, boasting exceptional uptake at GCSE and A-Level, and characterised by a curriculum that prioritises modern manufacturing, sustainable design, and student-led project work.
The Role
- Strategic Leadership: Managing the DT department to ensure the highest standards of teaching, learning, and student outcomes across KS3, KS4, and KS5.
- Curriculum Innovation: Oversight of a stimulating curriculum that encompasses Product Design, Engineering, and Resistant Materials, ensuring students are equipped for 21st-century industry challenges.
- Team Development: Mentoring and managing a team of specialist teachers and technicians, fostering a culture of professional growth and safe, expert practice.
- Health & Safety Management: Ensuring absolute compliance with health and safety regulations (DATA/CLEAPSS) and overseeing the maintenance of high-specification machinery and CAD/CAM equipment.
- Data-Driven Success: Monitoring student progress with precision to implement effective interventions and maintain the school’s track record of top-tier results.
- Budgetary Oversight: Coordinating departmental resources and managing budgets to ensure the continued provision of high-quality materials and modern technology.
The Ideal Candidate Will Have
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
- A strong honours degree in Design & Technology, Product Design, Engineering, or a related field.
- Proven experience as a successful teacher at all Key Stages, with a track record of achieving excellent grades at GCSE and A-Level.
- Previous leadership experience (e.g., Key Stage Lead or Second in Department) or a clear readiness to step into a Head of Department role.
- Deep knowledge of modern CAD/CAM software and manufacturing processes.
- Exceptional organisational skills and a professional, resilient approach to school leadership.
School Information
This outstanding secondary school in Reading is celebrated for its academic excellence and its commitment to providing a holistic, future-facing education. The DT department is a hub of creativity and technical skill, benefiting from a collaborative culture where staff wellbeing and student ambition are equally valued.
The school offers a highly professional working environment, significant opportunities for career progression, and a leadership team that respects the expertise and autonomy of its middle leaders.
Salary
MPS/UPS (Fringe) + TLR 2/1 (Commensurate with experience)
Application
To apply for this Head of Design & Technology position in Reading, please submit your CV or contact us for further information. Early applications are encouraged.
Head of DT - Outstanding Secondary School - Reading - September Start employer: Marchant Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Marchant Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of DT - Outstanding Secondary School - Reading - September Start
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, attend local events, and connect with other educators on social media. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its values. Understand their approach to Design & Technology and think about how you can contribute to their vision. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for innovation in your field. Bring examples of successful projects or initiatives you've led in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to drive the department forward and inspire others.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of DT - Outstanding Secondary School - Reading - September Start
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Design & Technology shine through. We want to see how your vision aligns with our commitment to creativity and innovation in the classroom.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience and achievements in teaching and leadership. We’re looking for someone who can drive our DT department forward, so showcase your successes in previous roles!
Be Specific About Your Skills: Don’t just list your qualifications; explain how your deep knowledge of CAD/CAM software and modern manufacturing processes will benefit our students. We love seeing candidates who can connect their skills to real-world applications.
Apply Through Our Website: For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on the path to joining our fantastic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Marchant Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in Design & Technology, especially around modern manufacturing and sustainable design. Be ready to discuss how you can innovate the curriculum and what strategies you would implement to keep students engaged.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of your previous leadership experiences, whether as a Key Stage Lead or in other roles. Think about how you've mentored others and fostered professional growth within your team, as this will be crucial for the Head of Department role.
✨Health & Safety Know-How
Familiarise yourself with health and safety regulations relevant to the DT department, like DATA and CLEAPSS. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure compliance and maintain high-spec machinery, as this is a key responsibility of the role.
✨Data-Driven Decisions
Think about how you’ve used data to monitor student progress in the past. Be ready to share specific examples of interventions you've implemented that led to improved outcomes, as this will demonstrate your commitment to maintaining the school's track record of excellence.